About Johan, Pigeon fancier from Berlaar, Belgium

Who is Johan De Belser

Johan De Belser received the microbe from his father Victor, who in turn got it from grandfather. He was really born in a “pigeon nest” and has been racing pigeons for the biggest part of his life. It was during this period that the game of speed reigned supreme. Dad “Victor” was a remarkable speed player all his life and this translated into winning many champion titles, mainly in the local society of “De Verbroedering Berlaar-Heikant”.

Johan’s grandfather died in 1979. Johan then decided to continue playing in the same lofts together with his cousin Werner Dierickx. They had some outstanding pigeons, the “Oude Blauwe” became ace pigeon on Noyon for 5 years.

Through frequent contact with half and long distance players, his interest in these flights grew. This led to Johan making the transition to these flights over time.

After his marriage a beautiful villa was built, with of course .. lots of pigeon lofts. Johan lives “in the countryside”, as is often said here in Belgium. During the first 2 years, only speed “Vitesse – Dutch” was played, but the longer distances beckoned. First half-distance but soon the distances became longer & longer. Especially Bourges from the end of July is the classic in which everyone from the Berlaar region wants to participate. Every year there are toppers with old, yearling and youngsters.

It was immediately clear that Johan did not want to become an ordinary follower.